Ni-containing catalysts based on ordered mesoporous MgO–Al2O3for methane dry reforming

Abstract The ordered mesoporous Mg- and Ni-Mg-alumina samples of general formula xwt%Mg-Al2O3 and ywt%Nixwt% Mg-Al2O3(x, y = 5, 10 % wt) have been prepared by the one-pot evaporation induced self-assembly (EISA) method using Pluronic P123 as a template. The textural and structural properties of the prepared samples have been characterized by N2adsorption-desorption analysis, BET, XRD, TEM with EDX, HAADF-STEM, and H2-TPR. The samples calcined at 700°C had an ordered mesoporous structure with a SSA of 170-250 m2/g, a pore volume of 0.5-0.64 cm3/g and a narrow distribution of the pore size (mean 12-16 nm). For the catalysts prepared by the one-pot EISA method, the size of the metal Ni particles was in the range of 3-12 nm and was conditioned by their confinement in the mesopores and the interaction with MgO and Al2O3. Testing in methane dry reforming in the 15v.% CH4+ 15v.%CO2feed, with He balance, at 650-750°C and the contact time of 0.015 s has shown the higher activity and stability of the ordered mesoporous 10w%Ni- 10w%Mg-Al2O3catalysts prepared by the one-pot method as compared with the catalyst of the same composition obtained by impregnation.